Using ecological theory to understand intimate partner violence and child maltreatment.

This article describes the relation between intimate partner violence (IPV) and child maltreatment using an ecological model. It further clarifies the multidimensionality of IPV and child maltreatment at the individual, family, community, and societal levels. The article reviews the dynamics of IPV and the relationship issues between mother and child when IPV is present. Areas relevant to nursing, such as assessment and intervention with mothers and children, are addressed along with professional biases and understanding. This article expands the community nurses' conceptualization of intimate violence issues and strengthen his or her nursing interventions.